A WILDLIFE trust is giving youngsters the chance to ditch the computer games and get outdoors to become nature detectives during the summer holidays.

Langdon Nature Reserve will be hosting wildlife discovery days for eight to 12-year-olds throughout August. They are designed to get more children enjoying the local woodland.

The all-day events, which take place from 10.30am to 3pm, will give youngsters the opportunity to discover the fantastic wildlife living at the reserve, based off Dunton Road, Laindon.

Each of the special days will have a different theme and will incorporate time spent outdoors with art and craft activities.

On Friday, August 1, the theme will be woodland safari. Youngsters can brave the woodland “jungle” to discover who eats who in the animal world.

On Thursday, August 7, things will be a bit jumpy with a frog face workshop giving youngsters the chance to meet the cold-blooded reptiles and amphibians which inhabit the reserve. They can then fashion their own frog masks to take home.

Karen McKay, education officer at the reserve, said: “These are going to be fantastic events for children to enjoy. They will not only learn a lot about wildlife, but have a fun time in the process.”

Other event will see a beautiful beasties – bugs and beetles – workshop August 15 and butterfly mosaic making on August 21.

All events must be booked in advance, by post or in person by visiting the centre. A donation of £8 per child is requested for each event, payable at time of booking.

Suitable outdoor clothing is recommended and children should bring a packed lunch. Call 01268 419103 for details.